Russia's first sure-fire art lottery

On March 26, 1837 the so-called Society for Encouragement of Artists organised the first draw of the Russia's first sure-fire art lottery

The organistion issued 5000 tickets at the price of 5 roubles each, whereas the cost of prizes made 26 000 – one thousand roubles more. The lottery was a success; it was followed by other similar draws; the income from these draws went for supporting the young artists, publishing society's literature and other purposes.